How did Paul Williams of The Temptations die?

Answer

Rare Soul reports that Temptations singer Paul Williams died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The singer was found dead in a Detroit alley on August 17, 1973 in his car with a bottle of alcohol. His death was officially ruled a suicide by authorities.

Williams' death occurred two years after his retirement from the Temptations due to alcoholism and poor health, according to Rolling Stone. The article also reports that though Williams had been performing with the Temptations prior to his retirement, vocalist Richard Street sang his parts for him from behind the stage curtain. Williams remained involved in the Temptations after his retirement in 1971 until his death.